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Identification

Pair of Vintage Ruby Red Pressed Glass Bottle Coasters with Shou Symbol

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

The items are a pair of deep ruby red pressed glass dishes, likely intended as wine bottle coasters or candle plates given their vertical walls, featuring a central molded Chinese 'Shou' (longevity) character and a double-beaded rim.

Story

These coasters feature the Chinese 'Shou' character, a traditional symbol of longevity, reflecting the mid-20th-century Western trend of incorporating Chinoiserie motifs into everyday domestic goods. Ruby red pressed glass was produced in massive quantities by American glasshouses like Anchor Hocking, Avon, and Indiana Glass during this era. The specific manufacturer of this pair remains unidentified pending a physical inspection for molded marks.

Maker / Origin

Unattributed

Condition & Value

Based on the visible evidence, the coasters present well with strong, consistent ruby red coloration and no obvious major cracks or structural breaks. The molded Shou symbols appear crisp.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

The secondary market for mid-century pressed glass barware is steady but highly accessible, driven by decorative appeal rather than extreme rarity. Ruby red glass remains a popular accent color for maximalist and vintage-eclectic interiors. Buyers typically source these items on platforms like eBay and Etsy for immediate use. Prices are generally capped by the abundance of surviving inventory, with sets of four or more moving faster than pairs.

Value Drivers

▲ Vibrant ruby red coloration appeals to vintage barware and eclectic decor collectors.

▲ Molded Chinoiserie 'Shou' (longevity) motif adds distinct visual interest over plain glass.

▲ Intact pair configuration supports the $20 baseline established by comparable sales.

Concerns

▼ Unverified rim condition — the presence of fleabites or rough spots would push value toward the $15 floor.

▼ Unidentified maker — lacking a confirmed manufacturer limits crossover appeal to specific glass brand collectors.

▼ Unknown dimensions — missing exact diameter may deter buyers looking to match existing sets.

Best Venue

List the pair on a broad e-commerce platform like eBay or Etsy, targeting buyers looking for vintage barware or Chinoiserie accents. Prior to listing, carefully run a finger along the beaded rims to check for fleabites, and inspect the base under strong light for any faint maker's marks. Ensure the listing includes the exact diameter to help buyers match existing sets.

Upside Potential

If a physical inspection reveals a desirable maker's mark (such as a highly collected mid-century American glasshouse) and the rims are confirmed absolutely flawless, the pair could reach the $25-$30 range to a dedicated pattern collector.

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Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 4 comps

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • Bonhams· 2024-03-19
    Transparent ruby-red glass chilong and shou-character bottle, circa 1780-1820
    Different form and era (18th/19th century snuff bottle).
    $12,160
  • Christie's
    A FINE CARVED RUBY-RED GLASS BOTTLE, IMPERIAL, ATTRIBUTED TO THE PALACE WORKSHOPS, BEIJING, 1740-1820
    Different form and era (18th/19th century imperial glass bottle).
    $8,225
  • Flying Bird Tea
    Ginkgo-patterned Bamboo Coaster Set wit Shou Character | 6 Pieces, 8 cm
    Different material (bamboo) and quantity (set of 6).
    $165
  • Etsy
    Vtg Ruby Red Cut 2 Clear Glass Votive Candle Holder Chinese Shou Longevity 4x4
    Single item, described as a votive candle holder rather than a coaster.
    $30